Trade Guns For Gift Cards At Gun Safety Event In San Diego County

LA MESA, CA — Community members can trade in their unwanted weapons for gift cards during a gun safety event this weekend in San Diego's East County.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Office has partnered with the La Mesa Police Department, San Diego County District Attorney's Office, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Division of Adult Parole Operations, and Sycuan Tribal Police Department to get unwanted guns off the streets.

People who donate handguns, rifles and shotguns will receive $100 gift cards, while those who trade in assault weapons will receive $200 gift cards, according to the sheriff's office. Free gun cable locks will also be distributed while supplies last.

To be eligible for the gun buyback program, firearms must be in working order, unloaded and placed in the trunk of the vehicle. A deputy or officer will then provide further instructions, officials said.

All collected weapons will be destroyed, according to the sheriff's office. Residents turning in weapons can remain anonymous.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at La Mesa Civic Center at 4825 Date Ave. in La Mesa.